ACADEMIC CATALOG >>
2007-2008

1: Catalog Home 2: What We Believe 3: University Profile » 4: Degrees, Programs and Schools » 5: College of Undergraduate Studies (Traditional) » 6: College of Adult and Graduate Studies » 7: Course Descriptions 8: Administration and Faculty »  

5-7: Student Life

Colorado Christian University is committed to the belief that learning occurs both in and out of the classroom. Students are able to impact the world for Jesus Christ as they are competent in their fields of study and as they develop a lifestyle that reflects their Maker. This integration of knowledge and lifestyle is best achieved in the context of community. Opportunities for dialogue, interaction, recreation, fellowship and service promote personal growth and community growth within the university. Student Life seeks to extend appropriate services with sensitivity to a diverse on- and off-campus population while modeling accountability and holding students accountable to community standards.

Standards of Conduct

CCU is committed to creating and maintaining an environment where individual and institutional responsibility combine to promote each student's complete life. In order for the university to achieve this goal within an atmosphere where the rights of its members are respected, it is necessary to establish policies and procedures. These regulations have been developed to reflect the nature of a student community and the situations inherent in it. Every member of the university community is provided equal rights and benefits in accordance with the expectation that each student has maturity, intelligence, and concern for the rights of others. When a person demonstrates a lack of cooperation and consideration of the standards set by the University, formal disciplinary action will occur. Behavior judged to be disruptive to the university community or harmful to the individual student, cannot be tolerated and will result in university involvement.

Students in the College of Undergraduate Studies (CUS) are asked to assume positions of responsibility in the university judicial system, as described later in this section, in order that they might contribute their skills and insights to the resolution of disciplinary cases. Final authority for disciplinary matters, however, is vested in the university administration, the President of the University and his designees, by the university Board of Trustees. Under this authority, the Vice President of Student Development, or his designee, may assign the adjudication of cases to the Student Judicial Board, or administrative hearing officers, at his discretion.

It is the intention of this code to clarify the standards of behavior essential to the university's educational mission and its community life. The standards of conduct are applicable to all traditional College of Undergraduate Students, Adult Studies students, master's degree program students, and students attending CCU at other campuses throughout Colorado, as well as their guests who visit the campus. See the designated Program Center Director/Coordinator for details of the Standard of Conduct within the given program.

Purpose

One of the distinctions of Christian higher education is the pursuit of a community that follows the example of Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Bible. Having such a community requires establishment of standards that reflect our institutional mission and provides a framework for student behavior. The intent in working with students in disciplinary matters is to enhance their growth in various areas, including developing responsibility for their own behavior and accountability for their actions. Accordingly, each student will be treated as an individual within formal disciplinary procedures instituted at such time as it becomes apparent that a violation of university policy or behavioral expectation have occurred so as to increase the ability of the student to live with others in a group situation, or function in the campus community within the university's expectations.

Students are expected to live in accordance with the teaching of Scripture. The Bible teaches the Lordship of Jesus Christ over all of life and thought. It also states that we are to care for our whole being as temples of the Holy Spirit. We are to be careful stewards of our minds, bodies, time, abilities, funds, and opportunities. We have the responsibility of loving God with all of our being and loving our neighbors as ourselves. Students must realize the important responsibility we have to personal righteousness and the practice of justice, to the value of evangelistic outreach through word and life, and to exercise our freedom.

It is expected that students will act in consideration of others and exercise personal restraint when dealing with issues not specifically addressed in the Bible. Particular care should be taken to exercise discretion in choice of entertainment and associations. Students should also be aware of the growing problem of drugs and alcohol abuse in our society, as well as the offense and danger of the use of tobacco. The university recognizes that these practices would reduce the effectiveness of our corporate testimony and could harm others. To this end, all such activity is banned from the campus, and CCU students off campus are subject to disciplinary review when information regarding alcohol, drug, or tobacco use is reported.

It is assumed that individuals who join the university community will strive to: deepen their spiritual commitment and understanding of the Bible; develop their moral character; expand their intellectual abilities; participate constructively in community life; and observe and adhere to the rules and regulations of the university as long as they are CCU students on or off campus.

The following are seen as purposes for disciplinary proceedings:

  • To redirect behavior
  • To protect the rights of others in the community
  • To encourage and to teach responsibility for one's own actions

Since one of the main foundations of the discipline process involves emphasizing a student's responsibility for his/her behavior, student records will remain on file for the entire length of his/her stay at CCU.

General Student Regulations

Colorado Christian University is committed to cooperating with federal, state, and local authorities in their efforts to enforce existing laws regarding alcohol use, drugs, and public health and safety. University regulations in these areas are guided by our educational purpose within the framework of applicable law. Students are expected to abide by these laws and regulations and to accept responsibility for their conduct. Violations of federal, state, and local laws may be referred to appropriate outside agencies for disposition in addition to any university disciplinary action.

Actions involving a student in a legal proceeding in a civil or criminal court do not free the student of responsibility for his/her conduct in the university judicial system. If the student is charged in both jurisdictions, the university will proceed with its own judicial review process according to its own timetable.

The university also reserves the right to initiate disciplinary proceedings against students who have been formally charged with criminal violations off campus by legal or civil authorities. The University also reserves the right to initiate disciplinary proceedings against students who may have otherwise committed an action off campus, which may be related to the security of the University community or the integrity of the educational process. Such discretion rests with the Vice President for Student Development or the president of the university.

Disciplinary regulations at the university are set forth in writing in order to give students general notice of prohibited conduct. The regulations should be read broadly and are not designed to define misconduct in exhaustive terms. The university reserves the right to interpret conduct that is in violation of these regulations.

Off-Campus Incidents Involving CCU Students

Colorado Christian University reserves the right to take necessary and appropriate action to protect the safety and well being of the campus community. It may become essential for the university to take necessary and appropriate action as a result of student incidents off campus which may affect the ability for students to function well in the university community, at university sponsored events, in the classroom, or those that are in direct conflict with the unique mission of the university.

Typically, the university would address off-campus violations of the university standards of conduct, as outlined in the Student Handbook, between currently enrolled university students, or students and other CCU community members, found in the "Prohibited Conduct" section of the Handbook. A student involved in an off- campus incident with another university community member could face charges in the university discipline system and judicial process, as well as civil or criminal charges. Complaints from university community members against university students involving infractions other than violations of the standards of conduct will not be the responsibility of the university to investigate or review.

In the event of complaints from non-university citizens or agencies, the university will cooperate fully with local authorities in the performance of their duties, but it will not have responsibility for adjudicating the complaint. If a specific Standard of Conduct violation is involved in the complaint, then the University will reserve the right to act in that instance.

Student Conduct Expectations

Within the traditions of its mission and Christ-centered heritage, CCU expects its students to develop a high standard of behavior and personal values. Among these expectations are:

  • Respect for the rights and human dignity of others, especially in the conduct of relationships;
  • Respect for the rights and needs of the CCU community to develop and maintain an atmosphere conducive to academic study and personal life;
  • Respect for the university's academic traditions of honesty, freedom of expression, and open inquiry;
  • Tolerance and respect for the different backgrounds, personalities, beliefs, and spiritual traditions of students, faculty, and staff who make up the CCU community;
  • A willingness to assist others in need of support, guidance, or friendship;
  • Respect for federal, state and local laws and ordinances;
  • Respect for the authorities, policies, procedures, and regulations established by the university for the orderly administration of university activities and the welfare of the members of the CCU community.

The Student Handbook addresses additional issues related to the student code of conduct including, but not limited to, students' rights as victims, rights of participants in the discipline process, sexual harassment and assault processes, explicit sanctioning guidelines, and the judicial process.

Applicability of Services

Descriptions of policies, regulations, and services described in this catalog are generally intended for all CCU students including the College of Undergraduate Studies program, either full- or part-time, students in the College of Adult and Graduate Studies programs, and academic programs offered at other CCU sites around Colorado. The availability of services to students is subject to change at the discretion of the university. Program features include, but are not limited to:

Policies Program Availability
Standards of Conduct All CCU students ***
General University Regulations All CCU students
Housing Regulations/Availability CUS students**
Services Service Availability
Athletics CUS students
Campus Ministry All CCU students
Career Services All CCU students*
Financial Aid All CCU students
Food Service All CCU students
Residence Life/Housing CUS students
Security All CCU students
Student Activities All CCU students
Student Government Activities CUS students
Student Health Insurance All CCU students*
Student Life Office All CCU students
University Counseling Services All CCU students
University Health Services CUS students

* Designates departments whose services may be accessed on a fee for use basis.

** CUS designates the College for Undergraduate Studies program.

*** All students refers to any CCU student in any program.

Questions on the availability of other services not listed here should be referred to the Student Life Office or the program directors of nontraditional programs.

Mission of Student Life

In keeping with the mission of the university, its educational goals and assumptions, the Department of Student Life strives to support the growth and life of the CCU student:

  • through an effort to integrate the life of the whole person-spiritually, personally, socially, physically, intellectually, and vocationally;
  • through programs that develop leadership skills and encourage students to assume positions of significant responsibility;
  • through promotion of an academic atmosphere in all student activities and services;
  • through encouragement of students to exercise their freedom and judgment while respecting the rights and needs of the campus community;
  • through activities that promote service to others on and off campus;
  • through activities and services that maximize the opportunities for students to understand themselves and to grow and develop to their fullest potential;
  • through activities that enhance an atmosphere of spiritual growth, renewal, and understanding while continuing the commitment to a relationship with Jesus Christ.

To these ends, the university provides the following departments and programs to serve its students.

Student Life

The administrative responsibility for the supervision and coordination of the Student Life areas and staff rests with the Vice President of Student Life. These areas include: campus ministry, student programs, health services, career services, counseling services, residence life, security, student activities, intramural sports, the student government association, and a liaison relationship with the food service provider. The Vice President for Student Development is also responsible for implementing the discipline program and Standards of Conduct. The Student Life Office is located in the Student Life House.

Intramural Athletics

The purpose of the Intramural Sports Program at CCU is to promote healthy community life within CCU's student body by providing high-quality athletic and other competitive activities, in which students have fun while competing against fellow students in activities such as flag football, basketball, dodge ball, ultimate frisbee, soccer, volleyball, and other sports. There are many opportunities to get involved with intramurals through both one-day and league events.

Students compete on intramural teams with other students from their stairwells and buildings and contend against other teams for intramural points throughout the school year. Intramural points accumulate, and a male and female intramural championship team is crowned in the spring of each year. Intramural points are earned both by participating and winning.

The Intramural Sports Council is committed to serving God, and the students of CCU by facilitating fun activities and healthy competition so that students can build community both within their intramural team and with the students they compete against. Intramurals is supervised by the Director of Residence Life and is and is operated by the Intramural Sports Council, a staff of six or seven students.

The Intramural Sports Council is officed in the Student Union. Look for the Intramural Sports Council booth at chapel, ask your RA about it, and look for advertisements all over campus for more information. Come out and play!

Campus Ministry

The mission of the Campus Ministries Department is to equip and mobilize students to make Christ known around the world. At CCU, we use the term "spiritual formation" to refer to everything we do, in and out of the classroom, to make faith in Jesus Christ the authentic center of our lives. We seek to educate minds, model holy living, instill passion for Christ, develop compassion for others, immerse in community, and stimulate personal growth so that we may raise up servant leaders committed to advancing God's kingdom.

There are 4 major areas of Campus Ministries: Worship, Discipleship, Outreach and Missions. The Campus Ministries House is located at the far southwest corner of the campus, near the residence halls, immediately next to the sand volleyball courts.

Worship/Chapel

Chapel services exist to point us to God alone, as we worship Him in spirit and truth. We seek to keep God first by:

  • Encouraging an intimate, personal relationship with God through worship,
  • Providing challenging, Biblically-based teaching intended to transform personal living,
  • Complementing the work of the local church and the classroom through creative, effective communication on topics relevant to university students,
  • Providing a corporate experience to unify the CCU community in Christ.

Chapel attendance policies (College of Undergraduate Studies):

  • Satisfactory chapel attendance is a requirement for graduation. Chapel attendance is required of all CUS students who are taking 12 credit hours or more. Chapel is held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 10:50-11:40am in the CCU Event Center, unless announced otherwise.

  • Attendance is recorded at each chapel via scanning student ID cards. Each student must attend and record their attendance at a minimum of 25 chapel programs out of the 35- 40 opportunities offered each semester. This gives students some flexibility in case of sickness, injury, forgetting student ID card, or some other pressing need to miss chapel. There are opportunities for additional chapel credits listed on the chapel schedule for students who choose to take advantage of these opportunities. There are no other excused absences.

  • In order to receive credit for attended chapels, students must do the following:
    • Have their student ID (No exceptions).
    • Scan their ID prior to 10:55am.
    • Remain for the entire program (students leaving early are asked to scan out).

  • If a student has less than 25 attendance credits at the end of the semester, a $7 fine will be imposed for each chapel missed below 25. The maximum fine per semester is $175. Fines are posted directly to student accounts at the end of each semester. This money is used to help support student mission teams through CCU2theWorld.

  • It is the responsibility of the student to pursue the chapel exemption procedure.

Online Chapel Alternative

Full-time students who have hardship circumstances that prevent them from attending chapel during the established times may apply to fulfill their chapel requirement on-line. Students who are approved to take Chapel on-line will benefit from chapel via listening to chapel services on-line at a time and place of their choosing. There is a listening guide available for each service that also serves as the attendance tracking mechanism for these students.

Participating in on-line chapel is an all-or-none scenario and is not intended to substitute for corporate worship due to personal convenience or preference. It is not permissible to combine in-person attendance and on-line participation in calculating one's attendance record.

Examples of hardship circumstances which could warrant permission to take chapel on-line include:

  • A direct and unavoidable work conflict,
  • Commuters who have no classes scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays and who live more than 20 minutes from campus,
  • Severe medical conditions that restrict participation,
  • Married students with children who need more flexibility,
  • Students fulfilling their semester of student teaching.
  • Students taking classes at another institution during chapel.

All of these circumstances are subject to verification in order to be approved. There is a small fee for those students approved to take chapel on-line. Because of the strong community effect gained through direct, in-person participation, it is our desire that the utilization of on-line chapel be for those few students who truly cannot attend to chapel.

Application for on-line chapel must be made each semester by the second Friday and the course work completed by the first day of finals week. Fines are calculated and assessed before the end of each semester as stated in the previous section.

University Health Services

Staffed by a licensed nurse practitioner, University Health Services provides routine ambulatory medical care for students in CCU's College of Undergraduate Studies. Diagnosing and treating minor illnesses, prescribing medications, and making medical referrals are all a part of the Health Services office. The University Health Services practitioner works with a local physician when consultation is indicated. Some laboratory tests can be done in the office and when necessary, blood samples can be drawn and sent to a laboratory for testing. Allergy shots can be given, but a written physician order and the vaccine must be provided by the student. The student will be asked to complete an allergy history form and this information will become part of the student's health care file. There is a small clinic charge for injections and an initial illness visit. There are no charges for follow-up visits related to that illness. There will be additional charges for lab testing or a supply of wound care products for daily dressing changes. Appointments can be scheduled to see the nurse practitioner Monday through Friday, by calling 303-963-3365. Walk-ins will be seen as the schedule allows. The office is not open on school holidays, school breaks, or during the summer. The University Health Services office is located in the Student Life building.

The following immunization and insurance requirements are for all CCU students enrolled in six or more credits in the College of Undergraduate Studies whether living on or off campus. The State of Colorado requires all college students to have a certified record of two (2) doses of Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR record must be signed by a physician, nurse, county health department official or school health authority. The following is taken from the Colorado Immunization law:

  • Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is not required for college students born before January 1, 1957.
  • If the student received a second measles dose prior to July 1, 1992, the second rubella and mumps dose is not required.
  • The first MMR must have been given on or after the first birthday. The second dose of measles, mumps and rubella vaccine or of the measles vaccine must have been administered at least 28 calendar days after the first dose.
  • In lieu of immunization, written evidence of laboratory tests showing immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella is acceptable.

A "Statement of Exemption" to the immunization law may be signed. A "Medical Exemption" must be signed and dated by a licensed physician. A "Religious Exemption" and a "Personal Exemption" are also available. The Religious Exemption and Personal Exemption must be signed and dated by a parent, guardian or emancipated student 18 years or older. In the event of an outbreak of the measles, mumps or rubella, exempted students will be subject to exclusion from school until the outbreak is over.

The meningitis vaccine is recommended by the CDC, the Colorado State Health Department and the American College Health Association. The State of Colorado does not require that students have the meningitis vaccine, but the state requires signed documentation that each student has read the information about the disease and the vaccination. The student must show proof of having received the vaccine or sign the form indicating that he/she has read and wants to decline the vaccine, or that he/she has read the information and would like to receive the vaccine. The Health Services office will have the vaccine on hand at the beginning of each semester. The vaccination cost varies each year and is payable by cash or check made out to Colorado Christian University. Although other immunizations are not required by Colorado law, students should provide the nurse practitioner with all additional immunization information, whenever possible. Students should discuss additional immunizations with their family physicians. These vaccinations are not routinely available through the University Health Services office.

MMR information and meningitis information must be turned into the Health Services office by the drop/add date of the first semester of classes for the student. If the immunization requirement has not been met or the meningitis information has not been completed by that date, an academic hold will be placed on the record of that student. This "hold" will prevent the student from receiving a transcript of grades or registering for any further classes.

As a condition of enrollment, all students in CCU's College of Undergraduate Studies carrying six credits or more must have health insurance coverage. This insurance coverage requirement applies to all students- those living off-campus as well as those students on-campus. This requirement can be met in two ways:

  1. A student who has current health insurance may sign a waiver form and submit it with a copy of the front and back of the student's health insurance card. This waiver and proof of insurance must be submitted by the drop/add date of the student's first semester in attendance. A new waiver form and proof of insurance must be completed with any name change or change in health care insurance. If a student takes a semester off, a new waiver with proof of insurance is required.
  2. A student without current health insurance can purchase the University sponsored student health insurance coverage. Student athletes need to purchase an additional insurance rider that is required of all student athletes. The student insurance charge will be posted on the student account by the semester. The student will be eligible to request summer coverage as long as he/she has carried the school sponsored plan during the spring semester. The University sponsored insurance provides coverage 24 hours a day, whether on-campus or away.

All students in the College of Undergraduate Studies carrying six credits or more who have not waived the school sponsored health insurance plan or requested the school sponsored health insurance plan by the add/drop date will be billed for the school sponsored health insurance plan. Athletes will also be charged for the mandatory insurance rider that is required of all athletes. The billing of the CCU insurance plan will become final at the end of the third week of classes and no refunds will be given after that date. During the time between the add/drop date and the end of the third week, if a waiver is submitted with an acceptable proof of health insurance card, the insurance charge will be refunded except for a $20 late fee. There will be no exceptions to this policy.

The MMR, meningitis information and health insurance information will be maintained confidentially as part of the student's medical record. This record will be updated with each student contact in the Health Services office.

Communicable Disease Policy

A variety of communicable diseases exist that vary in degree of transmission to others and severity of potential health risks to individuals. These diseases, ranging from infections such as chicken pox, measles, and mononucleosis to more serious diseases such as tuberculosis, leprosy, and acquired immune deficiency syndrome, generate differing levels of concern among various populations.

Colorado Christian University strives to establish clear, consistent and non-discriminatory policies and procedures to deal with communicable diseases and concurrently acknowledges the importance of protecting the privacy of individuals. These policy and procedure statements are formulated on the basis of current medical and legal opinions regarding communicable diseases with the goals of providing health awareness opportunities and extending proper treatment to all CCU employees, faculty and students within the bounds of legal, moral, and ethical responsibilities. A full description of the policy statement regulating communicable diseases is available in the University Health Services office or the Student Life office.

If a student will NOT be 18 years of age when he/she arrives on campus, a "Consent to Treat Minors" form must be completed, signed by the student's parent or legal guardian and turned in to the Health Services office.

University Counseling Services

In keeping with the mission of the University and the spirit of developing the whole person, University Counseling Services strives to meet both individual and group needs through counseling opportunities based within Christ-centered foundations. The office is directed by full-time, State of Colorado licensed mental health professionals who are assisted by various interns to provide services to the traditional undergraduate population. All on-campus counseling services are provided free of charge. The co-director also advises the discipleship advisors, a group of student leaders who provide lay counseling and discipleship services and activities that are intended to foster emotional and spiritual wellness in students.

Counseling Center staff members manage cases that are referred off campus to specific professionals handling various conditions, and act as liaisons for the University in those instances. Appointments are necessary and can be made by calling Campus Ministries at (303) 963-3375.

CCU reserves the right to require an individual to seek medical or psychological examination and treatment in order to maintain student status. The University also reserves the right to communicate with parents and appropriate CCU faculty and administrators concerning medical or psychological treatment, when required to do so by law, as in the case of danger to self or others.

Residence Life

A decision regarding living on campus is perhaps one of the most important decisions a student can make in their college career. Living on campus provides the greatest opportunity for living and learning in community. The Residence Life program strives to involve on-campus students in a Christian community that is fostered and built by the Residence Life staff.

The community living program at CCU emphasizes the Christian mind and character within an atmosphere that is conducive to exploration learning, risk taking, and concern for the individual as well as the community as a whole. Thus, living in this community requires students to live with integrity, honesty and respect, take responsibility for one's own actions, demonstrate care and concern for interpersonal relationships, and encourage responsible living among all others in the community.

The Residence Life program seeks to help students enjoy an on campus living experience that provides opportunities for students to develop holistically. Thus, the Residence Life staff and other community leaders provide programs that encourage the mixing of various students' backgrounds and interests and promote education, uphold the University Standards of Conduct, assist students through encouraging positive roommate relations, mediating roommate conflicts as necessary, and following up on incidents that occur within the on-campus residences.

Resident Assistants, under the direction of professional Resident Directors, are placed in each living area to role model behavior, build and encourage community, act as a student advocate and resource, serve as a liaison between the administration and students, help with facilities problems, and pursue the interests of the students within their environment. These efforts may include confronting individuals about unacceptable behavior, following up on noise complaints, investigating vandalism, planning a group outing, sitting on-duty during the week, and being available to their students through community meetings.

Located in Yetter Hall apartment #134, the Office of Residence Life is open from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m. daily and Residence Life staff are available during the evenings on Monday through Friday from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday nights from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Students should refer all incidents occurring in the community to the Residence Life staff during these hours, or to Security at 303-963-3222.

Security

CCU provides a 24-hour security presence on campus seven days a week. This service provides parking oversight, escort services, criminal investigation, and security lock-up for the Lakewood Campus.

Student Activities

The mission of the Student Activities Office at Colorado Christian University is to cultivate students as excellent servant-leaders, build Christ-honoring community, and be a significant positive influence on campus culture. This mission is accomplished through the following organizations and activities:

Committee on Student Activities (COSA): a division of the Student Government Association, COSA promotes Christian community and influences campus culture by providing campus-wide events.

Clubs, Organizations, and Ministries (COMs): chartered through the Student Government Association, these student run groups enhance the diversity of campus activities and provide a crucial part of the campus culture.

Orientation: exists to welcome new students and assist them in making a successful transition to the CCU community.

Student Union: a 24/7 community "hub", the Student Union serves as a social gathering place for growing community.

Best of Colorado: offers students a variety of recreational trips throughout Colorado that are designed to help them explore and appreciate God's creation while also encouraging team and community building as well as an active lifestyle.

Community Outreach: promotes our desire to engage our world and transform the community outside of the University.

Leadership Interns: increase awareness and cultivation of students' skills and gifts through active participation in programming and office management.

Campus Publicity and Event Registration: as a centralized location for managing vendors, campus marketing, and student events, these services assist in the monitoring of activity on campus and marketing materials placed in campus information sources.

Student Life Office

The Vice President for Student Development at Colorado Christian University supervises many of the service-related departments on campus, including the Life Directions Center, Security, Health Services, Counseling Services, Residence Life, Student Activities, Campus Ministry, the Student Government Association, Intramural Sports, and the student newspaper. The Director of Judicial Affairs serves as the university's designee to run the discipline system for the campus, including setting and upholding the university's standards of conduct.

The office also supervises and advises the Student Judicial Board within the campus judicial process. The Student Life Office is located in the Student Life House.